TEMPO.CO, Banjarbaru - Juwita, a female journalist from newsway.co.id, a local online media outlet in Banjarbaru, was killed by a Navy member identified as J, who holds the rank of Class One.
In addition to being a journalist, Juwita was also a Communication Science student at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari Islamic University (Uniska MAAB) Banjarbaru. She was known for her intelligence, kindness, and reserved nature.
"Behind her calm demeanor, she possessed extraordinary intelligence and perseverance," recalled MS. Shiddiq, a guest lecturer at Uniska MAAB’s Communication Science department, when contacted by Tempo on Thursday, March 27, 2025.
Shiddiq remembered Juwita as a student with a strong grasp of her studies, actively engaging in class discussions. Although she wasn’t one to dominate conversations, he noted, "Juwita always had insightful and weighty opinions."
Beyond her intellect, Juwita was also known for her warmth and willingness to help others. Shiddiq often heard from students that she was always ready to lend a hand. He even knew of instances where she personally assisted classmates struggling with their studies.
"This further strengthens my impression that she was a student who not only excelled academically but also had a high level of empathy for others," said Shiddiq.
Although he did not personally know her family, Shiddiq believed Juwita came from an educated and well-mannered background. Her respectful attitude toward lecturers and kindness toward peers reflected strong moral values.
"Her classmates often spoke highly of her for being polite and always willing to help," added Shiddiq, who also serves as the editor-in-chief of Banuaterkini.com.
Shiddiq was also aware of Juwita’s work as a journalist. During her studies, she occasionally sought permission to arrive late or extend assignment deadlines due to reporting duties.
"I also remember she once asked me for advice on becoming a good journalist. From the articles she showed me, it was clear she was a talented young journalist. She learned quickly and continuously improved, demonstrating her passion for journalism," he said.
As her lecturer, Shiddiq felt honored to have taught Juwita, describing her as intelligent, talented, and compassionate. He mourned her tragic loss. "It is definitely a great loss, not only for her family and friends but also for the academic and journalistic world, which should have been enriched by figures like her," he expressed.
Outside of her studies and journalism, Shiddiq had heard that Juwita was set to marry a Navy member in May 2025. "That’s all I know about her fiancé because Juwita never spoke to me directly about it during her studies," he added.
Meanwhile, the Police Military Detachment Commander of the Balikpapan Naval Base (Lanal), Navy Major Ronald Ganap, confirmed that one of their members, identified as J, is suspected of Juwita’s murder.
"This tragic incident occurred on Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan," Ganap stated in a press conference, as conveyed in an audio broadcast received by Tempo yesterday.
Ongoing Investigation into Her Tragic Death
Authorities are still investigating the full chronology of the incident, as the crime took place outside Lanal Balikpapan’s jurisdiction. Ganap emphasized that they are still examining the motive and the nature of the relationship between J and the victim.
J has since been detained by the Navy Military Police at Lanal Balikpapan. Ganap urged the public to be patient as the investigation unfolds. "We ensure that the legal process will be transparent and follow applicable regulations," he assured.
According to Ganap, J had only been stationed at Lanal Balikpapan for one month after serving in the Navy for about four years. "We are still determining whether the perpetrator was in Banjarbaru for official duty or personal reasons at the time of the incident," he said.
The Navy has expressed deep condolences to Juwita’s family. Ganap stressed that there would be no attempt to cover up the case. "If proven guilty, the suspect will face appropriate sanctions and penalties in accordance with the law," he stated.
Juwita’s body was initially discovered on a roadside in Gunung Kupang Village, Cempaka District, Banjarbaru, on the afternoon of Saturday, March 22, 2025.
At first, police suspected she had been in a single-vehicle accident due to multiple injuries on her body. Her wallet and phone were missing, but her automatic motorbike remained at the scene.
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